East West Players appoints new Artistic Director

East West Players Appoints New Artistic Director

East West Players, the nation's oldest and largest producer of Asian American theater, has appointed Lily Tung Crystal as its new artistic director. She succeeds Snehal Desai, who left the position in 2023 to become the artistic director of the Center Theatre Group. Tung Crystal will join Managing Director Eugene J. Hutchins in a new co-leadership model as the theater approaches its 60th anniversary season.

Tung Crystal brings extensive experience to her new role, having served as the artistic director of Theater Mu in the Midwest. She co-founded Ferocious Lotus Theatre Company in the Bay Area and has worked as a stage director, actor, TV and film writer, and producer. Originally from the South Bay, she will relocate to Los Angeles with her family, marking a return to her hometown after studying at Cornell University.

Her tenure at Theater Mu saw significant growth in the organization's budget and focus on showcasing diverse Asian American stories. Tung Crystal prioritized creating career pathways for Asian American artists and initiated fellowship programs in various theatrical disciplines. At East West Players, she aims to continue this mission, promoting more equitable and inclusive storytelling.

Tung Crystal is expected to assume her role ahead of the new season, which will continue to emphasize bold, new works by Asian American writers and artists.